Effectiveness of physical activity, mindfulness and mind-body therapies in improving mental health of university students: a systematic review of RCTS.
Journal of American college health : J of ACH April 22, 2025 Laura García-pérez, Maria Elena Atencia-Rodriguez, Mar Cepero-González et al. 8 citations
Physical activity, mindfulness, and mind-body therapies such as yoga and Qigong-Baduanjin can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress among university students aged 18 to 25 without severe mental health conditions. A review of 18 randomized controlled trials involving 2,325 students found that in 89% of studies, these interventions led to significant improvements in mental health, regardless of the specific type or duration of the program. The evidence supports these approaches as effective strategies for enhancing well-being in this population, though the authors recommend more research with standardized methods and long-term follow-ups.